New Fire Burns into Denali National Preserve

Date: June 25, 2013
Contact: Kris Fister, [phone]

DENALI PARK, Alaska: There are now three fires in Denali National Park and Preserve, as the Beaver Log Lakes Fire near the northwest boundary of the preserve increased in size, assisted by a north wind, and moved into the preserve. It is located approximately 6.5 miles northeast of Lake Minchumina and was estimated at 150 acres yesterday. Fire managers are currently evaluating needs for sensitive resource protection, i.e. historic cabins and other cultural resources, in the vicinity of the fire.

The Moving River Fire, burning 29 miles northwest of Kanthisna has moved north of the Kantishna River. The smokejumpers completed half of the burnout being done to protect the historic Roosevelt cabin yesterday, and expected to burn and mop up the remainder today.

The Bear Creek Fire, which is still estimated to be approximately 60 acres in size, is located fifteen miles northwest of Kantishna and three miles west of Moose Creek.It continues to burn in an area that burned in 1993.

Weather forecasts are predicting hot and dry conditions for the foreseeable future. Because of the high fire danger, the National Park Service urges park visitors to be extremely cautious with anything that could start a wildfire. Fires are not allowed in the park's wilderness areas and fireworks are prohibited. Everyone has a hand in a safe wildfire season.

Currently there are 86 active wildfires in the state. Where there is fire, there is smoke. Due to the current and expected statewide fire activity, anticipate the possibility of varying levels of smoke. Keep informed of local fire information and air quality reports. Wildfire smoke information is available at http://dec.alaska.gov/air/smokemain.htm. Visit http://fire.ak.blm.gov for statewide information and a map of the active fires.